Introduction
If you’re spotting a few extra strands in the shower or noticing that your hairline is receding in the mirror, hair fall can really be a very stressful affair. One question that keeps on being asked is if hair loss is due to testosterone.
Since testosterone is regarded as one important hormone in the body, especially in men, it is reasonable to wonder whether it could be responsible for hair thinning.
In this blog, we will discuss the relationship of testosterone and hair loss, treatments and associated side effects, along with a few myths that need to be busted.
The Link Between Testosterone and Hair Loss:
Testosterone is not the main bad guy when one thinks about hair loss.
It is rather Dihydrotestosterone, as the byproduct of testosterone that causes hair loss.
The way it happens:
Some of the testosterone is converted into the DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Then, DHT attaches to seats on hair follicles and shrinks them over time. The process known as miniaturization then converts fine hair into the absence of hair.
So, strictly speaking, the hormone is not testosterone directly responsible for hair loss but the method through which the body processes testosterone into DHT.
High Testosterone vs. Low Testosterone:
High Testosterone: If you happen to naturally have high testosterone, in that case, your body could actually make high amounts of DHT, putting you at a risk of hair thinning further, especially if you are genetically prone to it.
Low Testosterone: Surprisingly, low testosterone is not a license to keep your hair. Genetics, stress, and health conditions play a big part in hair loss.
So, some men with low testosterone still go bald from male pattern baldness, thanks to sensitivity to DHT.
Bottom line: it is about how strong or weak are your responses to DHT and not purely based on testosterone levels.
How to Treat Hair Loss Caused by Fluctuating Testosterone Levels:
It could feel good to know that if you are suffering from hair loss due to hormonal changes, you will have options!
Here are some common treatment options:
- Finasteride
Finasteride (also known as Propecia) is an oral prescription medication that works by blocking 5-alpha-reductase and reducing the formation of DHT.
It is FDA-approved in the treatment of male pattern baldness and can hence stop or even reverse hair loss in many men.
Note: You will need long-term treatment to keep up your results.
- Minoxidil
Minoxidil (known as Rogaine) is an external agent that is applied topically to the scalp.
It stimulates the hair follicles and may induce regrowth but does not block DHT.
It is often used in combination with Finasteride to provide improved results.
- Biotin
Biotin is a B vitamin that is marketed for stronger hair, skin, and nails. Even though biotin deficiencies are almost unknown, some people swear by this vitamin for hair strength and less breakage when supplemented.
- Pumpkin Seed Oil
It has been shown that pumpkin seed oil may counteract DHT production and contribute to hair health. This would be a more natural, side-effect-free approach for those who are weary of medication.
- B-Vitamins
The B family, particularly B12 and B6, are known to contribute to healthy hair growth. Getting more B-vitamins through the diet and/or supplementation may encourage thicker and stronger hair.
Side Effects of DHT Blockers and Inhibitors:
While effective, Finasteride comes with the risk of side effects, such as:
- Less libido
- Impotence
- Changes in mood
- Enlarged or tender breasts
Not everyone experiences any side effects, and it is important to talk to a doctor about the risks before starting treatment. Natural DHT blockers like pumpkin seed oil tend to carry fewer side effects, even though they may be less effective.
Who Is at Risk of Losing Hair?
Genetic factors: Family history of baldness is the biggest predictor because baldness is inherited.
Hormonal factor: The increased sensitivity to DHT increases the risk of baldness.
The Age Factor: Aging also affects hair thinning.
Lifestyle Factor: Poor diet, stress, smoking, and lack of exercise contribute.
Medical factors: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases, can also be responsible for hair loss.
Similarly, women with high testosterone levels (such as found in PCOS) are known to experience hair thinning, usually at the crown and temples.
Does High Testosterone Equate to Male Hair Loss?
Not really.
Heightened testosterone could increase the production of DHT, but unless your hair follicles are sensitive to that DHT, it may not take place at all.
Behold, testosterone and DHT are the tools; it is your genetics that decide what they can build (or destroy).
Conclusion
Though testosterone does not directly cause hair loss, its byproduct DHT is one of the main hormones implicated in hair thinning, especially for people genetically predisposed to it. Fortunately, numerous treatments exist to manage and even reverse hair loss-anywhere from medical to natural remedies.
If you notice some thinning in your hair, the best thing to do is visit a dermatologist or healthcare provider, so you can get the best personalized approach that fits the requirements.
Keep in mind that hair loss is pretty darn common, so you are not going through this alone.
FAQ
Q: Does testosterone make your hair fall out?
Not really. If you are genetically sensitive, testosterone is converted to DHT, which can shrink hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
Q: Will my hair grow back if I stop taking testosterone?
It depends. If hair loss was initiated solely by taking external testosterone (such as hormone therapy), stopping its intake might slow hair loss, although regrowth would need additional treatments to be ensured.
